Entry and exit of buses from Gabtali terminal suspended

Long-distance traffic from Gabtali in the capital Dhaka has been suspended due to government-imposed restrictions to control coronavirus infection. However, many passengers say they are unaware that transport has been stopped.

Many people were returning, unable to go out of Dhaka. Many have been trying to get to their destinations by alternative means. Those who were travelling in or around Gabtali or Savar are trying to catch their bus, crossing the Aminbazar bridge on foot.

A visit to Gabtoli bus terminal saw long-distance vehicles suspended there. The terminal was empty, and the ticket counters were closed.

Buses heading out of Dhaka were being diverted from the front of Gabtali cattle market. Long-distance vehicles coming to enter Dhaka were being diverted from the Aminbazar bus stand.

The government has decided to isolate the capital from the rest of the country. All activities except emergency services will be closed in seven districts including four districts around Dhaka.

The restrictions have started from 6:00 am on Tuesday. It will continue until midnight on 30 June.

Many passengers who came to the Gabtali bus terminal to go to different destinations did not know that the vehicles would be closed today. Those people who have come to the terminal were travelling to their destination by cars or motorcycle.

The seven districts under government restrictions are Manikganj, Narayanganj, Munshiganj, Gazipur, Madaripur, Rajbari and Gopalganj. Long-route buses will not run from Dhaka to these districts. Trains will not lay over in these seven districts. Passenger vessels will not operate from Dhaka. As a result, the capital will be virtually cut off for nine days.